EDM Cell Leader - Aerospace Manufacturing

Overview: Electro-Methods, a Stronvar Aerospace company, is seeking an EDM Cell Leader to operate as a critical frontline leader responsible for overseeing all Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) operations ensuring the safe, precise, and efficient production of tight-tolerance aerospace components. This role combines deep technical machining expertise with proven people leadership to drive performance in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and cultural cornerstone behaviors. The Cell Leader will coach and develop team members, manage daily operational execution, reinforce Standard Work, and implement Lean/CI practices to support EMI’s growth, productivity, and customer commitments. This leader must have a demonstrated record of leading high-performance manufacturing teams, ideally in aerospace or precision machining environments. Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Daily Operations Lead, coach, and develop EDM operators across multiple shifts to ensure safe, high-quality, and on-time production. Set daily priorities, allocate resources, and conduct Tier 1/Tier 2 daily management reviews. Ensure adherence to Standard Work and operational discipline. Maintain consistent communication with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain. Technical & Production Oversight Oversee setup, programming review, and operation of Wire, Sinker and Hole Drilling EDM machines. Support troubleshooting of machining issues, tooling constraints, and process deviations. Partner with Engineering on new product introduction (NPI), MRB reduction, and process improvements. Drive first-pass yield, minimize scrap, and reduce rework through disciplined problem-solving. Quality, Compliance & Documentation Ensure compliance with AS9100, NADCAP, customer requirements, and internal quality procedures. Verify completion and accuracy of all routers, travelers, inspection records, and digital documentation. Support internal and external audits; drive corrective and preventive actions. Reinforce ‘Precision in Everything We Deliver’ through metrology accuracy and adherence to print specifications. Safety & Culture Model and enforce all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and hazard reporting expectations. Conduct safety talks, near-miss reviews, and ergonomic assessments. Promote EMI’s Cultural Cornerstones: Safety – Precision in Everything We Deliver – Collaboration and People – Commitment to Excellence Continuous Improvement (Lean/CI) Lead CI initiatives within the EDM cell, including 5S, waste elimination, setup reduction, and workflow optimization. Utilize Lean tools (A3, Fishbone, Standard Work, Visual Management) to improve throughput and reduce labor hours. Partner with Lean/CI team to sustain Tiered Daily Management objectives. Workforce Development Assess skills, certify operators, and identify training needs to increase autonomy and capability. Manage workforce planning for the cell, including cross-training and shift coverage. Required Qualifications 10+ years of leadership experience in machining, aerospace manufacturing, or precision metalworking environments. Strong technical expertise in EDM machining, including setup, Fixturing, Work Instructions, and GD&T interpretation. Demonstrated success leading teams in high-mix, low-volume aerospace production. Experience working within AS9100 and NADCAP-regulated environments. Track record of delivering improvements in safety, quality, cost, and throughput. Proficiency in reading blueprints, engineering drawings, and using metrology tools. Strong problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Ability to coach, develop, and hold team members accountable. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience leading cells or departments in a Lean/CI environment. Knowledge of ERP/MES systems (e.g., Oracle, Epicor, SAP, or similar). Certification in Lean/CI or Six Sigma (Green Belt or higher). Experience supporting NPIs and MRB reduction initiatives. Working Conditions Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and shop-floor activity. Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift materials as required for shop-floor leadership. Occasional off-shift or weekend support during critical production periods. Qualified candidates may email their résumé along with a completed application form to: jobs@electro-methods.com or apply in person at Electro-Methods, Inc. 330 Governors Hwy, South Windsor, CT 06074. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Job Type: Full-time Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Work Location: In person